Giving Back
Philanthropy Overview
Explore further information about the charitable organizations and events to which I have dedicated my commitment. We kindly invite you to contemplate the possibility of contributing your time or financial resources to these noble causes.
Philanthropy has been a guiding principle throughout my life. From moments of abundance to times of need, I've witnessed firsthand the profound impact of giving. From a house fire taking away the home I was raised in during my senior year of high school to Hurricane Katrina destroying all of my possessions in my Freshman year of college and displacing me for years, and even facing discrimination for being LGBT+ throughout my life and fighting for human rights for myself and my friends, it's times like these where I was very, very fortunate to have 501c3 organizations proactively reach working towards causes, offering help to me, my family, and my community for free.
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This experience taught me a valuable lesson – that when we're fortunate, we should never forget that others may be enduring hardships. I reflect on moments when I had very little, even in times of plenty. My advice to all is simple: don't wait for someone to ask for help, and don't attach conditions to your assistance. Just give. Avoid publicizing your efforts; let those you've assisted choose whether to share the impact. Publicity may unintentionally expose or embarrass someone, which contradicts the original intent of helping.
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In gratitude for the support I've received, I am committed to paying it forward. If you share my passion for giving, I invite you to join me in supporting the charitable organizations I'm currently involved with or have supported in the past.​
Teddy Bear Party 2023
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The Teddy Bear Party is a deeply meaningful event to me. Co-Founder Jason Hanna initiated it in 2009, aiming to unite his peers socially while making a difference in the lives of others. He chose a children's hospital as the beneficiary, inspired by his dream of becoming a parent and emulating his own parents' love and care.
Tragedy struck in November 2011 when Jason's mother was diagnosed with cancer. In a heartfelt response, his co-founders and the local LGBTQ community rallied to create the inaugural "official" Teddy Bear Party. This event not only uplifted Jason's mother but also received unexpected support from the LGBTQ community, turning it into a success.
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The Teddy Bear Party doubled in size in 2012, with 500 guests and eight corporate partners. Today, in 2023, the event thrives, supporting beneficiaries like Cook's Children's, Family Equality Council, and Equality Texas. Thanks to our founders, hosts, and corporate sponsors, 100% of your donations go directly to these worthy causes.
For this reason, 2023 was my second year contributing to their success as a bronze sponsor, and my partner Lucas Lira has also decided to increase his support as a host sponsor. Please consider doing the same, and we'll see you at the event!
Halloween New Orleans
Halloween New Orleans is one of the most celebrated gay party weekends of the year and one of the country's longest-running and most respected fundraising events. Join us for an incredible weekend of love, fun, friends and giving back!
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As a former HNO Board Member, I can attest that this event and the cause they fund are critical to the ongoing support of keeping Lazarus House operating and providing critical mental health and housing services to various members suffering in the LGBT+ community.
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In 2023, we have gathered a group of over 25 men from San Diego and Los Angeles to become Host Sponsors for the event, and we encourage you to do the same for 2024! Feel free to reach out to me directly for more information on how you can support this amazing event and cause.
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